In the final years of the 1980s, I set out on a budget travel adventure to the European continent with a travel partner. Since my travel mate was considering enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had planned a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We reached the student accommodation, a large multi-story edifice on the Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we went directly to the cafeteria, where we got some food, found a table, and engaged in conversation with other diners.
Adjacent to my seat was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He inquired what I my profession was, and I shared that I had newly finished with a degree in science and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an research lab at Columbia University – close to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He suggested that I should apply for a role with them. I laughed it off, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
The next day I toured the city, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student approached me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the head of the electron microscope unit at Columbia. Because he had taken the effort, I went to the meeting – but right away informed my host that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
In typical New York fashion – a city where opportunities abound – she responded: “We'll handle it. When can you start?” I missed my plane to London.
I held that position for 36 months. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to complete a master’s of international affairs.
I never saw that student again and I don’t even know his name, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and ask for a job. And, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that gig at Columbia led me to a position in Switzerland where I got to know my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Kindest Gesture a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we want to hear about random meetings that have remained in your memory.
Feel free to recount your experience if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you choose. What you share are confidential, and are intended for the purpose of this feature.
